We left Maine last June for extended cruising/traveling abroad. In the months and years leading up to departure I set up almost everything to be paid or handled electronically and/or online. We have to snail mail a check annually for a couple of things, for example a safety-deposit box at a bank. But in those few instances I know the amount due, the address and account number so we can simply mail a check. I have a master list for all that kind of stuff, so I know what'd due and when. Almost everything is being handled online these days - insurances (house, car, boat, health), utilities, dues, and the like. Even our house property taxes can now be paid online. I just have to remember to go online and look for it and pay it, since we won't be receiving the snail mail bill.

Taxes next spring will be a small test, but again I know everything we will need and how to get the info online, and I believe we'll be able to gather everything we need electronicallly. It will be my small victory over the U.S. government; as complicated as they let the system get, they're not going to change my lifestyle and make me fly home to figure it all out (pardon the slight rant).

At this point I honestly don't think we need snail mail. When I flew home a month ago it took me about an hour to go thru and toss out most of the mail, and then I had a handful of minor items to deal with. In fairness, things like medical bills or other unusual ad hoc items would be harder to deal with but fortunately our logistics have been pretty straightforward so far.